Tumors may develop from any of the structures lining or supporting the ear canal, including the outer layer of skin, the glands that produce earwax and oil, or any of the bones, connective tissues, muscles, or middle layers of the skin. The most common benign tumors in both cats and dogs are inflammatory polyps, papillomas, basal cell tumors, and ceruminous gland adenomas (tumors of glands producing earwax). More common in cats than dogs, ceruminous gland adenocarcinoma is the primary malignant tumor of the sweat glands that is found in the external auditory canal. Though rare, it is one of the most common malignant tumors of the ear canal in older dogs. Although the exact cause of ear canal tumors is unknown, it is thought that longterm inflammation of the ear canal may lead to an abnormal growth and development of tissue, and finally to the formation of a tumor. Signs of ear canal tumors include ear discharge (waxy, pus-filled, or bloody) in one ear, a foul odor, head shaking, ear scratching, swelling or draining abscesses near the ear, and deafness. In any case of inflammation in one ear that does not respond to treatment, a tumor of the ear canal should be suspected by an veterinarian.

Many ear tumors are polyp-like growths which may arise and attach by a narrow base or stalk to any of the structures that line or make up the ear canal. This would include, but not be limited to, the outer layer of skin, the glands that produce earwax and oil, or even bones, connective tissues and muscles. Malignant tumors (Ceruminous gland adenocarcinomas) are more commonly seen than the benign form (adenomas). Benign or malignant tumors that develop from the earwax glands in the external ear canal seem to appear more in middle-aged or older dogs. Also, there is an increased risk for ear tumors in dogs which have a history of chronic otitis (ear infections), such as Cocker Spaniels and dish-faced dogs like Pugs.

Malignant tumors are locally aggressive and have the potential to metastasize (spread) to the nearby lymph nodes, salivary glands or lungs. Benign tumors usually grow locally and compress tissues, but usually do not spread to other areas. Rarely, other cancers can occur in the ear canals or on the pinna, (ear flaps) [“leather”] of the ears, such as various carcinomas and squamous cell tumours.

It is not possible through medical observation or physical examination alone to determine with certainty whether lumps in the ear(s) are non-cancerous or malignant, and will spread. More definitive diagnosis of these tumors requires blood tests, urinalysis evaluation and biopsy. The tumors may be visualized with deep otoscopic examination, which typically requires sedation or anesthesia. Advanced imaging with CT or MRI may also be suggested to determine the extent of the tumor(s). A biopsy can be taken during the otoscopic exam or through surgery. Other biopsies of the lymph node, as well as chest x-rays, are usually performed to determine if tumors, which present as malignant have metastasized (spread elsewhere in the body). The veterinary pathologist at a specialized diagnostic lab will examine the cells of biopsied tissue under a microscope and then provide as definitive a diagnosis as possible.

The treatment of choice for ear canal tumors is surgical excision. Laser surgery is very effective when it is available. For benign tumors this can be curative when they are completely removed.

Aggressive surgery is the preferred treatment for malignant tumors. It often involves removal of the ear canal and cleaning out the inner ear. This surgery is typically referred to as a total ear canal ablation (TECA). Most dogs can live an additional 2 years or more after aggressive surgery.

Radiation therapy is utilized in some cases to relieve pain and slow the growth of the tumor(s). This can also be used for the intent of curing when surgical excision is incomplete. However, when conservative surgery is performed, the prognosis is decreased significantly.

If a tumor seems to be aggressive, based on the biopsy, or if there is evidence of metastasis, then chemotherapy may be recommended. That said, if there is involvement of the deep parts of the ear, or spread of the cancer to lymph nodes or lungs, the prognosis is poor.

The veterinarian can offer a more complete outlook for the possible results of any surgery or other treatments. It is important to note that treating animals with cancer takes a strong commitment on the part of the owner. Therapy requires frequent trips to the veterinary hospital and can be expensive. In fact, some treatments may continue for a lengthy period of time, and require you to present your dog for treatment at precisely when requested by the veterinarian since the timing of cancer therapy is critical for obtaining an optimal outcome.

The most important management tasks after surgery are to keep the operation site clean and to prevent the dog from scratching or rubbing its ears. This will reduce the possibility of contamination, infection, bleeding, swelling and any loss of sutures. Special collars are usually placed on the dog to prevent scratching about the head. Topical medications may also be included. The veterinarian will detail all of the necessary post-surgical care and follow-up appointments. Medicines administered at home should be done exactly as instructed.

In many cases, surgery leads to a cure. However, in some others, surgery (or various treatments) will only provide a period of remission, with the cancer recurring. Your commitment to your pet and your veterinarian's dedication to providing state-of-the-art care will work together to keep your dog as happy and comfortable as possible.

Finding out that your furry family member has cancer is one of the hardest things to go through. We become so attached to our pets that sometimes we don’t consider the overall cost for their health and well-being. However, it is something to be aware of. Anesthesia may be required if the veterinarian wishes to view the tumors with a deep otoscopic exam. This test can cost around $400. The biopsy is necessary to conclude whether the tumor is benign or malignant. A biopsy can cost between $160 and $170. The veterinarian might choose an aggressive surgery if the tumor was malignant. This surgery can cost between $1,500 and $2,500. The veterinarian may then choose radiation therapy to assist in pain relief and to help shrink the tumor. This can cost $2,000 to $6,000. Chemotherapy may also be an option which can cost $1,000 per treatment or a total of $6,000 to $10,000. The total cost of treating your dog’s cancer will be substantial.